Brazilian Constituent Assembly (1988)

The Brazilian Constituent Assembly of 1988 was a body elected in 1986 with the specific purpose of drafting a new Constitution for Brazil following the end of the military dictatorship. The Assembly convened on February 1, 1987, and completed its work on October 5, 1988, when the new Constitution was promulgated.

The assembly was composed of 559 members: 487 federal deputies and 72 senators, all of whom were elected to Congress in the 1986 elections. The election was significant because it allowed for the broad participation of various political forces, reflecting a diverse range of ideologies and interests within Brazilian society.

Key issues debated during the Constituent Assembly included:

• The balance of power between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government: The goal was to limit the power of the executive branch, which had been dominant during the military regime, and strengthen the legislative and judicial branches.
• The rights of citizens: The new Constitution aimed to guarantee fundamental rights and freedoms, including freedom of speech, assembly, and religion. It also included social and economic rights such as the right to education, healthcare, and social security.
• Land reform: This was a contentious issue, with debates focusing on the redistribution of land to landless peasants and indigenous communities.
• Workers' rights: The Constitution included provisions to protect workers' rights, such as the right to strike, collective bargaining, and fair wages.
• Environmental protection: The assembly recognized the importance of environmental protection and included provisions to protect Brazil's natural resources.
• Indigenous rights: The Constitution recognized the rights of indigenous peoples to their ancestral lands and cultures.

The Constitution of 1988, often referred to as the "Citizen Constitution," is considered a landmark document in Brazilian history. It enshrined democratic principles, protected human rights, and established a more just and equitable society. However, it has also been criticized for being overly detailed and complex, and for containing provisions that are difficult to implement. The process of drafting and implementing the 1988 Constitution marked a crucial step in Brazil's transition to democracy after over two decades of military rule.